Ghana Travel Guide - Getting Around

There are domestic services between Accra, Kumasi and Tamale.

The Yapei Queen, a lake steamer, runs twice weekly across Lake Volta between Akosombo and Yeji. Ferries connect at Yeji for Buipe and Makongo, both from which it is possible to arrange onward transportation to Tamale. Booking is advised and can be organised from the Ministry of Tourism (see Contact Addresses).

The rail network is limited to a 1,000km (600-mile) loop by the coast connecting the cities of Accra, Takoradi and Kumasi and several intervening towns. There is also a rail link between the two main ports of Tema and Takoradi. Trains run at least twice a day on all three legs of this single-track triangle. There are two classes of ticket. Passenger cars are not air conditioned. Children under three years of age travel free; half-fare is charged for children aged three to 11.

Roads are generally in good condition, but can be in poor condition outside of the towns. Traffic drives on the right.

Coach: State-run and private coach services connect all major towns. The most popular national coach line is the Intercity STC. Vanef STC shuttles hourly between Kumasi and Accra. Other regional capitals and major towns can be reached by bus or by tro tros (minibuses) from Kumasr.

Taxi: Taxis are available.

Car hire: Available in Accra but extremely expensive, with or without driver.

Regulations: The speed limit is 50kph (31mph) in towns and 80kph (50mph) outside of towns. Seat belts are compulsory and drink-driving is illegal.

Documentation: An International Driving Permit is required. A UK driving licence is valid for 90 days.

Accra has extensive bus and taxi services operated by the private sector. There is an abundance of taxis in the towns. Prices are reasonable. Drivers do not generally expect tips. Other ways of getting around, for the more adventurous traveller, are tro-tros (minibuses) and mammy wagons (converted pickup trucks).